Sam Hinojosa is a seasoned leader in information technology, bringing nearly 30 years of experience and a strong track record of driving innovation, strategic planning, and operational excellence. As the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), Sam is responsible for setting and guiding the overall technical direction of the department—ensuring that technology effectively supports its life-saving mission and public safety operations.
In this role, he provides strategic leadership across all facets of the LAFD’s technology landscape, with a focus on long-term planning, cybersecurity, business continuity, policy development, and budget forecasting. He leads a team of experts dedicated to designing and maintaining complex, mission-critical systems that enhance emergency response and departmental efficiency.
Throughout his career, Sam has held roles at respected organizations such as General Instrument, American Airlines, and the University of Southern California (USC), where he served as Chief Technology Officer. At USC, he was responsible for the technical vision across the legal, risk, finance, and safety divisions, driving innovation in public safety technologies and enterprise systems.
Sam brings deep technical expertise and managerial insight to his work, with capabilities spanning server architecture, project management, software development, crime suppression technologies, access control, and radio communications systems. His solutions are always informed by a user-first mindset and a passion for advancing the delivery of virtual and real-time technology in high-demand environments.
He holds an Executive Master’s in Leadership from USC’s Price School of Public Policy, and both a Master’s and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Argosy University. Sam is deeply committed to mentorship and leadership development, continually seeking opportunities to support others in their personal and professional growth.